York University School of Continuing Studies Wins Prestigious Brandon Hall Group Award 

Articles Posts about SCS, Awards, People Analytics

By Matthew McGrath

We are thrilled to announce that the York University School of Continuing Studies’ Certificate in People Analytics has won a coveted Brandon Hall Group Bronze Award for excellence in the “Best University Professional Development Program” category. 

The 2025 Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards recognizes the best practices in Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Sales Performance, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and the Future of Work. 

“We are incredibly proud to see the Certificate in People Analytics recognized on an international stage. This award validates the hard work of our program team and the impact our learners are making by bringing data-driven insights into their organizations,” says Anne-Marie Taylor, program manager for the Certificate in People Analytics.  

Addressing a Critical Skills Gap 

In today’s workplace, HR decisions are no longer about intuition, they’re about data-driven insights that shape organizational success. Yet, despite access to vast workforce data, most HR professionals struggle to translate numbers into meaningful strategies.  

That’s where this program makes a difference. 

Since launching in 2020, the Certificate in People Analytics has been helping working HR professionals close the skills gap that most organizations face: 
 

  • 90% of companies say they need stronger workforce data capabilities. 
  • Only 8% report having usable data. 
  • Just 9% understand which talent factors truly drive performance. 
     

Canada alone faces a shortage of data-literate professionals. Recognizing this urgent need, the School created a purpose-built program for working HR professionals that combines theory with hands-on practice, bridging the gap between traditional HR expertise and modern data literacy. By learning how to analyze, interpret and communicate data, graduates can make strategic decisions that directly improve performance, retention and business outcomes. 

Who the Program Serves 

The program has attracted hundreds of learners, the majority of whom (70%) are mid-career HR professionals in roles such as HR Business Partner, Talent Acquisition Lead or Workforce Analyst.  

These learners are united by a desire to upskill in data-driven decision-making and contribute greater strategic value to their organizations. 

The program is specifically designed for professionals who want to: 

  • Make data-informed decisions with confidence. 
  • Communicate insights persuasively to leadership. 
  • Solve complex HR challenges using real-world data. 
     

Through this program, learners gain both the knowledge and practical experience needed to become valuable strategic partners in their organizations. 

Program Highlights 

Offered in flexible formats—part-time or intensive—the program combines live online classes with self-guided coursework, the Certificate in People Analytics enables learners to: 

  • Develop foundational analytics skills to address HR-related challenges through data-driven insights. 
  • Present visual data effectively and use insights to craft persuasive narratives. 
  • Identify HR-related business problems through an inquiry-based approach. 
  • Apply ethical and legal considerations in implementing people analytics solutions. 
  • Strengthen cross-functional skills such as critical thinking, persuasive communication, negotiation, and public speaking. 

“This year’s Excellence Award winners exemplify the transformative power of strategic human capital management. Through their innovative approaches to talent development and employee engagement, these organizations have not only achieved remarkable business outcomes but have also redefined what it means to create truly people-centric workplaces,” said Brandon Hall Group Chief Operating Officer Rachel Cooke, HCM Excellence Awards Program Leader. 

Programs were evaluated by industry experts on alignment with business needs, design and delivery, innovation, user experience and measurable impact—meaning learners can trust the skills they gain will be highly relevant and in-demand. 

Congratulations to all winners—and to the School of Continuing Studies program team—for continuing to demonstrate excellence in developing impactful programs and their ongoing commitment to preparing professionals for the future of work. 

Learn more about our Certificate in People Analytics and apply here to gain the analytical skills to utilize workforce data.
 

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